Fidgety. Distracted. Forgetful. Disorganized. A daydreamer. These are all adjectives that could apply to anyone at any time. But if these are words that feel like a constant to you, or an apt description of your child, it’s possible that you could be experiencing symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD.

ADHD is considered one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in children, and it often lasts into adulthood. For some people, the behavioral condition may even be diagnosed in adulthood. The Mayo Clinic describes ADHD as “a mental health disorder that includes a combination of persistent problems, such as difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior.” It goes on to say: “Adult ADHD can lead to unstable relationships, poor work or school performance, low self-esteem, and other problems.”

While ADHD can pose challenges in how people learn, work and interact, a doctor can provide tools, therapy and other solutions to help children as well as adults. Here are some facts to better help you understand ADHD.

There are different types of ADHD.

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, there are three different types of ADHD. They are: ADHD combined type, which is most common and tends to include impulsive and hyperactive behaviors along with distractibility and inattention; impulsive/hyperactive type, which is defined by impulsive and hyperactive behaviors without the inattention or distractibility; and inattentive and distractible type, which involves inattention and distractibility, and not hyperactivity. It’s also important to note that there is no single test for ADHD, so a clinician will base a diagnosis on the symptoms a patient shares, and the degree to which those symptoms disrupt daily life.

Some factors may put people at a higher risk for ADHD.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) calls ADHD one of the most common and most studied childhood conditions. Research indicates that the condition may be caused by any number of factors, including the anatomy and function of the brain; genetics; head injuries; premature birth; and prenatal exposure to alcohol or nicotine. In addition, there may be some evidence pointing to exposure to toxins in the environment, such as lead, but such cases seem to be rare.

Further, the AAP states that there is no evidence that ADHD is caused by the following: too much sugar, allergies, immunizations and food additives.

ADHD diagnoses are on the rise

In recent years, there’s been an increase in people diagnosed with ADHD. Today, it’s estimated to impact approximately 10% of children and 8% of adults in the United States.  In both groups, males are more likely to be diagnosed than females. 4. Symptoms may overlap or manifest differently in children compared to adults with ADHD.

ADHD symptoms can change over time, morphing in the teen years and again in adulthood. In children, signs could come across in a number of ways, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Some examples:

• They may make careless mistakes in their school work.
• They may have trouble completing tasks, such as long assignments and tests, or even maintaining a conversation.
• They may have trouble listening closely, or paying attention.
• They may become easily sidetracked from schoolwork, chores or other activities.
• They may struggle with organization, managing time and deadlines.
• They may lose items frequently, such as phones, eye glasses and school supplies.
• They may be easily distracted.
• They may be forgetful.
• They may have a tendency to fidget and squirm, or they may get up and move around when they’re supposed to be still.
• They may have a hard time keeping quiet when playing.
• They may seem to talk excessively.
• They may answer questions before it’s appropriate, or they may finish people’s sentences or interrupt.
• They may have difficulty waiting for their turn. 

  Adults with ADHD may have some overlap with children and teens, as well; and they could also have symptoms that come across differently with changes in age and circumstance. The National Institute of Mental Health shares the following examples for adults:

• They may struggle to pay attention to details and/or make mistakes that seem careless at work and in other activities.
• They may feel challenged to pay attention during time-consuming tasks, such as preparing reports, reviewing long papers, filling out forms and more.
• They may not seem to listen well.
• They may not follow instructions well or finish their tasks at work.
• They may not be good with organizational skills and time management.
• They may frequently lose items such as keys, wallets and phones.
• They may be easily distracted.
• They may be forgetful when it comes to day-to-day activities, such as paying bills, going to appointments and responding to calls.
• They may be restless and struggle to sit still for long periods of time.
• When sitting, they may fidget, tap their hands and feet and/or squirm.
• They may not be able to keep quiet during certain activities.
• They may seem to talk excessively.
• They may interrupt people and answer questions before the question is even fully asked.
• They may struggle to wait their turn in line. 

Caring for your overall health can also help your mental and behavioral health.

When you feel good, physically, it can help the way your brain functions. That’s why it’s important for all people—including those with ADHD—to make their health a priority. Here’s how to get started:

• Commit to eating the recommended servings of fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains and lean proteins so that you can think clearly and feel energized.
• Strive for the recommended physical activity levels based on your age. When you’re active, you’re helping your brain, your muscles, your bones and more. You could also boost your mood and improve sleep.
• Speaking of sleep, it’s important to get the recommended amount each night, according to age. Quality sleep can help you feel better, focus better and achieve more.

For people with ADHD, help is available at any age.

While there’s no current cure for ADHD, there are treatments that can help people manage their symptoms and improve the way they feel and function. The best place to start is talking to your doctor. Share the symptoms you’re experiencing and discuss your concerns. He or she may be able to suggest treatments or refer you to a specialist who can help.